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Saturday 15 June 2013

Get You Paris On In The South Pacific

The South Pacific is such a beautiful location and a fascinating mix of traditional and European colonialism; especially in the case of New Caledonia. Winter in Australia is usually a mild affair, compared to many locations in the world. But with New Caledonia only a 2 1/2 hours plane flight from Sydney, who could resist a quick getaway from chilly mornings and early sunsets?
The French influence in New Caledonia is obvious in language, food and affordability. With a currency linked to the Euro, this island is affluent compared to its Pacific neighbours, but with that you need to pay. A holiday will cost the same as a luxury holiday in Australia. While this will scare off regular visitors to Bali or Fiji, those looking for a bit of France in their neighbourhood, New Caledonia will tick almost all the boxes, without the 23 hour flight to Paris.
For the foodies looking for top end dining, you can't go past L'hippocampe at the Le Meridian resort in Noumea, Check out my review from TripAdvisor below.

“Get You Paris On In The South Pacific”
4 of 5 starsReviewed 10 May 2013
Fine dining is always about throwing the wallet to the wolves, so let's not discuss such things in polite company. Everything in a French Restaurant is expected to be formal and L'hippocampe is just that. Thierry and his young team perform with all the grace and poise required to make this a Grande dining experience.
It was beautiful to watch the young attendant pouring Champagne; completely nervous but focused and error free.
The decor is warm and enticing, the food masterly produced and service formal but with Pacific charm.
  • Visited May 2013
    • 3 of 5 starsValue
    • 4 of 5 starsAtmosphere
    • 4 of 5 starsService
    • 4 of 5 starsFood
Four course luxury at L'hippocampe Restaurant

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